1 B1 neutral
To write out a text or passage in full by copying it from an existing source.
"The students were asked to copy out the poem from the textbook into their notebooks."
separable
copy out
B1 neutral separable transitive
To reproduce a piece of writing in full by writing it out again, usually from an existing source.
In plain English
To write out an entire text or passage by copying it word for word.
What does "copy out" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To copy something out in its entirety.
Actually means
To write out an entire text or passage by copying it word for word.
Usage tip
Common in educational and formal contexts. Implies a complete and faithful reproduction of a text. Less common in everyday speech than 'copy down.' 'Copy out' often suggests a slightly longer or more deliberate task.
Words that pair with "copy out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
passage poem recipe address paragraph text
How to conjugate "copy out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
copy out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
copies out
he/she/it
Past simple
copied out
yesterday
Past participle
copied out
have + pp
-ing form
copying out
continuous
Hear "copy out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "copy out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "copy out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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